Stiff steering

Truck is steering fine sometimes and sometimes acts stiff. I changed the serpentine belt. I topped up the fluid was down about a 2 inches in reservoir with just regular power steering fluid. I don’t see belt slipping .

Any ideas would be appreciated?

Next thing was gonna change pump but thought was odd it seems fine by times.

 

Check for air in the system.

 

Is there a bleeder on the pump?

 

I'm not sure.

Jack the front wheels off the ground.
Remove reservoir cap. Cover with a towel (it can get messy.)
With the motor OFF, turn the wheels slowly until it you reach the lock stop. Turn the other direction slowly until you reach the lock stop.
Repeat a few times.
Start the engine, repeat turning process a few times.
Shut off engine
Top off reservoir.

 

Thank you I’ll give it a try after work

 

If it just started suddenly or over night? Then I am willing to bet it's the u-joint in your steering shaft. It's not servicable, the whole shaft needs to be changed.

You can check by getting both front tires off the ground and spray that joint with penetrating oil. If it's easier then that's your problem.

 

Is the joint under truck or the one y pedals

 

It's in between the firewall and steering rack.

 

I’m under the truck but can’t see it can I see it from the top?

 

Find where your shaft comes though the firewall. There is a u-joint right there after it comes though the firewall.

 

Follow the shaft down and see if there is a u-joint at the steering rack to.

 

So after sitting all weekend with a can of penetrating fluid soaked on steering steem it seems to be moving a lot better . Thank you for help!

 

The power steering system uses ATF.

 

That's just a temporary fix. That steering shaft needs to be replaced. Sorry, I was told mine was the worst 1 they ever saw. Lol

 

If your fluid level was low, be sure to check for oil staining around the inner tie rod boots indicating that your rack is ready to be replaced.